Select a substance such as iodine and explore how physical changes of state can be brought about by supplying heat energy to the substance. Observe what happens when heat energy is removed. Observe the changes of state at both the physical and particle levels. Explain the different properties of solids and gases in terms of their particle movement. This learning object is one in a series of three objects. The series is also packaged as a combined learning object.

Educational details

Students explain that changes of state occur when heat energy is added to, or removed from, a substance.

Students identify that changes of state such as sublimation and reverse sublimation are reversible physical changes.

Students explain that iodine will directly change from solid to gas and vice versa.

Students describe the properties of solids and gases in terms of their particles. During a change of state the particles of a substance do not change but their movement and the way they are packed together does change.

Educational value

Provides opportunities for students to observe changes of state such as the sublimation and reverse sublimation of iodine, both at the physical level and the particle level.

Includes animations of iodine particles, showing the different states and the processes that occur as they change state.

Supports the development of a deeper understanding of particle theory of matter and the kinetic theory of matter, and of the properties of solids and gases.

Includes options to print diagrams of the experimental set-ups used and summaries about the changes of state and the behaviour of the particles.

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